Contra

Contra is another popular series that was created by Konami. And this is the first game in the troubled legacy to start the wild-fire of acclaim for the Contra heroes. Still a basic take on the whole side scrolling thing. It added several elements that broke it away from the platform mold. Number one being it's fast-paced & guns a blazing action. What other game lets you destroy tons of baddies all while actually being fun. Coupled with the fact that you were controlling military men ala Rambo & Terminator. Very popular movies at the time that went with the whole theme. And the enemy was part robotic/alien creatures that took inspiration from the anime market. Guyver anyone? Ugly critters, what could be more fun to blow the heck out of? The whole project had it's own unique feel & look. Not to mention being one heck of a fun & challenging game. Hell, they can't even recapture that same flair in those crappy Contra sequels for the PSX. For the PSX for crying out loud! Oh well, not like a sequel could ever surpass the original. Doh, forgot about Metal Gear Solid. Another NES classic that should be in anyone's collection.

the Breakdown (10 good to 1 bad)

Category	Rating	How & Why
Graphics	8	Somewhat Mediocre / Hey Big, Ugly Robotic Aliens!
Music	7	Mostly Standard Bleeps & Blips / Carries that Military Feel
Gameplay	9	Let's Blow Everything Up / Hey they even have Platforms to Jump on
Innovation	9	Classic Shoot Everything Up Action / Take that Platform Regulars
Replay	9	2 Player Frenzy & Fun / You Try avoiding all the Things they throw at you

Overall 8.4